I am deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic shooting of Sonya Massey in Illinois. As a criminal defense attorney, parent, and leader of a leading legal advocacy organization, Gideon’s Promise, I find this story troubling for my team and me for many reasons. My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Sonya Massey’s family, friends, and the entire community during this incredibly difficult time. This senseless act of violence is a reminder of the urgent need for systemic reform and accountability within our law enforcement agencies.
Justice Reform for Sonya Massey and the Nation
Gideon’s Promise is a national community of public defenders who are committed to challenging the abuse of power disproportionately visited upon Black people and marginalized communities. Public defenders shine a light on, and fight against, abuses that happen in the streets and, for those who survive police encounters, that continue in the courts. We are the bulwark against state violence. When public defense is not funded, and state actors are allowed to act with impunity, tragedies like this one are the inevitable result. Our defenders bear witness to this violence and stand up to it every day.
The devastating loss of Sonya Massey underscores the critical importance of our work and the broader fight for justice and equality. We believe that effective legal representation and responsible law enforcement are not just aspirational rights, but are necessary elements for ensuring that justice is served and that all individuals are treated with equality and respect under the law.
We stand with the family of Sonya Massey during this painful time as they try to find some sense of justice and comfort. As public defenders, we know the system does not treat all people similarly, and the road ahead for Sonya Massey’s loved ones will be painful. Their quest for justice highlights the broader need for an equitable legal system that serves all populations, especially those who are most targeted.
The Real Problem is….
The need for police oversight is more apparent than ever. Instances of police misconduct and excessive use of force continue to erode public trust and disproportionately impact communities of color, low-income individuals, and those suffering with mental health challenges. According to recent data, Black Americans are three times more likely to be killed by police than white Americans, and despite making up only 13% of the U.S. population, Black Americans account for 28% of those fatally shot by police. Similarly, Latino individuals face a higher likelihood of police shootings compared to their white counterparts. This tragic event highlights the systemic issues that must be addressed to prevent further injustices. Comprehensive police oversight is essential to fostering accountability, transparency, and trust within our communities.
Gideon’s Promise remains committed to advocating for reforms that promote objective and unbiased treatment and justice for all. We call upon policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to take immediate action to implement meaningful changes that will prevent future tragedies and ensure that our legal and justice systems work for every person.
We represent hundreds of thousands of people who experience violence at the hands of police, prosecutors, and court systems whose stories are never heard. We expose these abuses and stand with families as they fight for justice. Public defenders are a critical part of the solution to a system that causes so much harm to those who are most impacted by abusive policing.
Your involvement is crucial in making a difference. Please join us on social media and contact us to learn how you can support this important cause. Together, we can push for a system where every individual, regardless of their socio-economic status, receives the fair and unbigoted treatment they deserve.
We stand in solidarity with those demanding justice for Sonya Massey and all victims of police violence.
In Unity,
Zanele Ngubeni,
Executive Director
Gideon’s Promise